China is showcasing its decades-long efforts to combat desertification at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), which officially opened on Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The China Pavilion, covering over 600 square meters, stands as the second-largest national pavilion at the event.
Under the theme “Cross-Century Green Great Wall, China’s Restoration in Action,” the exhibition highlights the nation’s ongoing battle against land degradation. Central to the showcase is the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, a major national initiative aimed at reversing desertification across vast regions of the country.
Launched in 1978, the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, often referred to as the “Great Green Wall,” spans thousands of kilometers across northwest, north, and northeast China. The program has been instrumental in transforming barren landscapes into green corridors, improving ecological conditions, and enhancing the livelihoods of local communities.
Visitors to the China Pavilion can explore interactive displays, historical accounts, and multimedia presentations that detail the significant progress made over the past four decades. The pavilion serves not only as a testament to China’s commitment to environmental restoration but also as a platform for international cooperation in combating desertification.
The UNCCD COP16 brings together representatives from around the world to address the pressing challenges of land degradation and its impact on global sustainability. China’s active participation and contributions underscore its dedication to a greener future and its willingness to share successful practices with the international community.
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China Pavilion opens at UN desertification conference in Riyadh
cgtn.com
